2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1465 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Toyota Starlet. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 377 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1978 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1978 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | R | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
